More and more people are now thinking about taking sabbaticals from work where they take extended leave which they often use to take a long holiday, do some charity work or just take a breather from working life.  They are normally available to employees after they have been with a company a certain amount of time.

There can be a number of advantages for both you and your employer of taking a sabbatical.  For you it can be a fantastic opportunity to get away from the pressures of everyday life and workplace stress.  It also means that when you come back to work you will feel refreshed and will possibly have a new enthusiasm for your job.

For your employer, the benefits can include retaining staff they may otherwise lose if they refuse their employee the sabbatical.  It can also make the employee more creative and productive and can give them the opportunity to learn new and useful skills while they are away.  If your employer is worried that you are getting restless and you need a break they would probably rather grant you extended leave rather than risking you handing in your resignation.

If you are planning on taking a sabbatical, then firstly you need to find out what your companies stance is on this topic.  If you have completed the necessary time at the company then you should go to your boss with your reasons and assure them that you will be returning.  You should mention how both you and they will benefit.